A Boro fan took on a workplace dare, donning full PPE at a match and raising £250 for a charity that supported his family through tough times
Paul, 40, raised £250 for the Russ Devereux Headlight Project. This charity helps people dealing with loss and aims to reduce suicide rates in the Tees Valley. Paul’s family has been affected by suicide; his niece tragically passed away at just 21. The charity has been a great support for them during their tough times.
He shared that the dare started as a joke among his colleagues at Hartlepool Power Station. They offered him a fiver each to wear the PPE, and he agreed once they raised £100 for the charity. His outfit turned heads at the match, especially since Boro secured their first home win of 2025.
A photo of Paul in his gear even made it to the Football Away Days social media page. He took his son Kayden to the game, who wasn’t too thrilled about the attention. Paul has been active in fundraising, doing challenges like skydives and a chilly dip in January. He had planned to join a Boxing Day Dip but fell ill.
Now back on his feet, he completed the dip in a mankini and a Headlight Project beanie. If anyone wants to support Paul’s fundraising in memory of his niece, they can find a link to donate.
If you or someone you know is struggling, there are helplines available. The NHS Choices website lists several resources, including Samaritans and Mind, which offer support 24/7.
